Inspiring Artistic Work Despite Tough Economy

Just how hard has the economy hit arts groups? I get that question all around town these days and the answer is fairly simple: hard. But I spend a lot more time in conversation about what extraordinary work arts groups are doing. It seems like a contradiction: tight budgets, layoffs and furloughs on the one hand but spectacular exhibits like Picasso at Seattle Art Museum pulling in more than 10,000 people in a day on the other. The work we’re seeing across the boards in the arts is really amazing. Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Directors’ Choice and All Tharp, Seattle Opera’s Lucia di Lammermoor and Seattle Shakespeare Company’s Hamlet are just a few of the recent shows that caught the hearts and imaginations of near-capacity crowds. It’s small wonder that this community has the reputation as one of the top places for the arts in the country.

How do arts groups do it? First by putting on works that truly inspire audiences and donors–and provide experiences that will shape the lives of young people. Second, nearly all the groups we fund are masterful in running really lean. And really lean is exactly what they are.

What of the future? I have to say I worry that there will be burnout in our arts community–that the commitment of our arts groups to excellence cannot be sustained over the long term at the current level of support. Unemployment is high and the State is facing horrific budget deficits. But at the same time many businesses and individuals are doing quite well and can and should support the things–from social services to the arts–that make this community a great place to live. The vibrancy of the community is a key ingredient for our economic success. It’s a great tribute to the leadership of our arts groups that they continue to produce such splendid work despite the tough economy.